Winter Wonderland
It doesn’t quite feel like Christmastime in my community until the Christmas Lighting Ceremony has taken place at the Bedford, Virginia landmark formerly known as the Elks National Home. The Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks is the fraternal organization that has operated the facility for over a century. The Elks National Home was recently sold and the new owner, English Meadows, has promised to continue the Christmas light tradition. Although this icon of Christmas has a new name, to those of us who have passed through those festive gates countless times over the years, it will always be ‘The Elks Home.’
This spectacular presentation of lights and scenery has been a tradition every December except one since 1953. Creating this winter wonderland is a monumental task. Beginning the first week of November, the Home’s maintenance crew as well as residents work many hours to hang tens of thousands of light bulbs and display numerous pieces of scenery. According to the Elks National Home, there are upwards of 20,000 vehicles that pass through the grounds each Christmas Season.
Here’s the thing: I wanted to share a Christmas tradition that I’ve delighted in since childhood. I hope you enjoy this little tour through ‘The Elks Home’ winter wonderland, and may your holidays be merry and bright!
If you would like to enjoy a bit of festive music while touring the Christmas light display, just click on the link. 🙂
“Winter Wonderland” from The Christmas Grass album
Have a wonderful weekend!
Categories: Christmas, Photography
How pretty! 🎄
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Visiting this lights extravaganza is a tradition! 😊🎄
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What a lovely tradition 😍
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Thank you. 🙂🎄
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So glorious! Loved the pics
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Thank you so much, Shivangi. 😊
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Wow!! What a stunning display! Such a beautiful place to be. 💚💖
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It’s really quite something—a lot of work goes into setting it up each year. I never get tired of visiting! Thanks for stopping by. 🙂
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Yesss. There’s a similar event here and for me, the Saturday after Thanksgiving, when I go see it, is the beginning of the season. Thanks for sharing yours!
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You’re right—it’s completely a part of our holiday tradition. Thanks, Joey.
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Gorgeous! Merry Christmas to you, Tonya. 🎄
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Merry Christmas, Jennie! 🎄
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😍
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So lovely!! Thanks for sharing😃
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Thank you for visiting, Garfield. I’m happy you enjoyed it! Merry Christmas!
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Merry Christmas Farmgirl! I missed your voice. You must have been busy. Happy holidays to you both and farm animals too🤗
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Merry Christmas, Garfield! Thank you for your lovely comment. I hope to find more time to write posts soon. All the best to you and your family! 😊❤️
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💕💕🎄🎁🎉⛄
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😊💗🎄❄️xoxo
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Santa, nativity, carolers, even can can girls! 😊
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Lol! I know…we’re an equal opportunity celebration! 😉🎄🎉
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Beautiful photos, Tonya. Bedford is a great town any time of year but it seems to come alive with those lights. Thanks for sharing.
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Thank you, George. It’s a festive sight for sure…Thanks for visiting.
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I have never heard a Bluegrass Christmas carol. Thank you for the Bluegrass Winter Wonderland.
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Thank you for visiting. 🙂
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